A new 1079 cm engine deriving from the Monster and an agile chassis, all assisted, for the first time, by Traction Control. Special and Sport versions also available

400, 800 and now 1100: the Scrambler family becomes a trio, making room for its bigger sister. The new engine and improved electronics are just the icing on this project, which promises to satisfy even the most refined palates of those who love the historic Ducati model.

THE STAR – The new 1079 cm3 engine is certainly the most highly-anticipated new feature, with its generous torque already available at low revs, assisted by an agile chassis developed in a similar way to offer heightened performance. Specifically, this is a two-valve, air-and oil- cooled L twin that is Euro 4 homologated and derives from that of the Monster 1100, boasting 98 mm bore and 71.5 mm stroke.

The Scrambler 1100's Desmodue engine has also been equipped with a 55mm single throttle body, full Ride by Wire with two injectors that, along with a generously sized airbox, ensure fluid delivery and accurate control of the fuel mix aspirated in each cylinder, equipped in turn with twin spark plugs and a secondary air system. In terms of power, we're talking about a maximum of 86 hp at 7500 rpm with maximum torque of 88.4 Nm at 4750 rpm. The gearbox is a six-speed while the clutch is the wet multiplate type with hydraulic control. The clutch also has a servo-assisted slipper function that limits rear wheel destabilization during down-shifting

WORD OF THE DAY: SIMPLICITY – As for its design, dimensions are increased but without doing away with those iconic brand elements, like the tear-drop tank with more sculpted, muscular lines and the classic aluminium interchangeable sides. The seat has been designed offer both the rider and passenger maximum comfort and is enhanced with visible stitching and the Ducati logo on the rear. Into all this, two silencers are integratedwhile the double exhaust contributes to the muscularity of this new born.

Another key element is the circular front light, which retains the glass parabola common to all Scramblers but also gains a new external aluminium frame. Inside the headlight is a brand-new aluminium X that features the Ducati logo. The cross divides the DRL (Daytime Running Light), creating the four typical light segments.

BACK TO THE FUTURE – Instrumentation on the 1100 recalls, for the most part, that of previous models with their circular design, remaining above the light and fully digital. The engine rev indicator is inspired by the speedometer of 70s bike, or rather it is positioned in the lower part of the control panel; the data displayed includes fuel level, selected riding mode (either Active, Journey or City) and the selected level of Traction Control.

The latter is the other main new feature of this new Scrambler, the first to offer traction control. This can be set to one of four levels, with one the least invasive and 4 the highest and most safety-orientated: still offering riders a choice though, the TCS can be deactivated.

THE OTHER TWO VERSIONS - The Special version is characterised by its black spoked wheels, chrome-plated exhausts and aluminium front and rear mudguards. The “Custom Grey” colour is unique to this version, as is the brushed swing-arm and adjustable fork with gold-coloured anodised sleeves. Other distinctive elements of the Special are the low handlebar, adjustable in width, and the brown seat, with dedicated upholstery.

The Sport version on the other hand stands out for its adjustable Öhlins fork and shock. The Sport comes in “Viper Black” with a central double yellow band on the tank and mudguards, aluminium rims with machined spokes, a variable section handlebar and dedicated seat upholstery.